Some 52 companies in Oxfordshire have risen to the royal challenge of this year's Queen's Awards for Enterprise.

The awards, the UK's highest accolade for outstanding business, are given for exceptional achievements in international trade, innovation and sustainable development.

Queen's awards secretary David Moore, said: "We're delighted by this response from the firms in Oxfordshire and hope that other local businesses will also rise to the challenge of the Queen's Awards 2002.

"Over the years Oxfordshire has produced many worthy winners, including three winners of the 2001 Awards.

"It should not be forgotten that the Queen's Awards don't just recognise growth - they can also help create it. Many winners find the award a valuable promotional and marketing tool in international markets."

The Queen's Awards for Enterprise are open to businesses with impressive growth in their chosen category and which have at least two employees. The closing date is October 31.